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Creamy Bacon Broccoli Pasta Salad

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A creamy, crunchy, and flavorful pasta salad combining smoky bacon, crisp broccoli, and a luscious dressing, perfect for Memorial Day cookouts and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini pasta, cooked al dente
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. While pasta cooks, crisp 8 slices of thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat, about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer to paper towels to drain and cool. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Cut fresh broccoli into small florets, about 3 cups. Finely dice 1/4 cup red onion. If desired, shred 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese now to save time later.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Add chopped bacon, broccoli, red onion, and shredded cheddar to the pasta bowl. Pour dressing over and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld and broccoli soften slightly without losing crunch.
  7. Give the salad one last stir before serving. Taste again and add more salt or pepper if needed.

Notes

Do not skip chilling the salad; it enhances flavor and texture. If salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a splash of milk or more mayonnaise. Use thick-cut bacon for best texture and flavor. Rinse pasta in cold water to stop cooking and help dressing adhere. Dry broccoli thoroughly to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon broccoli pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, Memorial Day salad, cookout side dish, easy pasta salad

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